Under the message that “running London is no joke”, the policies include “six common sense priorities” London First says are needed if London is to remain a world-leading city:
• Keep us connected – Increase London’s airport capacity in the medium to long term, and persuade Government of the urgent need for more international flights from Heathrow by allowing more flexible use of runways, balanced with reduced noise.
• Welcome the talented – Lobby against migration policies based purely on numbers and for students here temporarily not to be counted as permanent migrants.
• Make life less taxing – Make the case to the Treasury for growth-stimulating changes to personal taxation, including raising the personal allowance, to boost consumer spending, and ending the temporary 50% top rate tax, to encourage business leaders to base themselves here and create jobs.
• Be the ambassador for London – Promote London overseas and ensure that the opportunity provided by the Olympics is fully exploited. Also, to reverse recent cuts to promotional budgets and maintain this level of funding.
• Get things moving – Keep the Tube upgrade and Crossrail on track and on budget and take bold steps to tackle road congestion.
• Get things built – Drive regeneration and create jobs by supporting plans for homes, offices and infrastructure.
London First’s Chief Executive, Baroness Jo Valentine, said: “Running London is serious business. On many issues, the Mayor’s chief role is as the lobby for London, and we expect the incoming Mayor to support measures that not only bring jobs and prosperity, but ensure that London is, and is seen to be, truly open for business.
“A number of the priorities we have highlighted today are also within the Mayor’s direct control, and we will be looking for a commitment to achieving these aims in the next four years.”
London First’s manifesto can be downloaded here.
